Therapies

Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is a treatment that helps children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, as well as their parents or caregivers, overcome the negative effects of the trauma

  • What it doesTF-CBT helps children and adolescents learn to cope with trauma-related difficulties, such as post-traumatic stress, depression, and behavioral problems. It also helps parents learn to support their children and cope with their own emotional distress. 
  • How it worksTF-CBT uses a variety of techniques, including:
    • Psychoeducation: Teaching children and parents about common reactions to trauma 
    • Coping skills: Teaching children and parents skills like relaxation, identifying feelings, and cognitive coping 
    • Gradual exposure: Helping children and adolescents gradually expose themselves to trauma-related memories 
    • Cognitive processing: Helping children and adolescents process trauma-related thoughts and beliefs 
    • Caregiver involvement: Involving parents in individual sessions and conjoint sessions with their children 
  • Who it’s forTF-CBT is for children and adolescents ages 3–18 who have experienced a traumatic event, such as abuse, loss of a loved one, or a natural disaster. 
  • EffectivenessResearch shows that parental participation in TF-CBT significantly enhances its beneficial impact on children.